Rainfall chaos hits parts of PH as ITCZ and easterlies trigger landslide and flood threats, says weather bureau

Heavy rainfall continues to affect various parts of the country as the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) and easterlies dump scattered rains and thunderstorms, particularly across Mindanao and Luzon, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Friday.

As of 2 a.m. on June 20, PAGASA said no tropical cyclones or low pressure areas are developing within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). However, the prevailing ITCZ and easterlies are expected to trigger unstable weather conditions throughout the day.

Flash flood and landslide warnings in effect

The ITCZ is currently affecting Caraga, the Davao Region, Zamboanga Peninsula, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Palawan. These areas will experience cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms, which may result in moderate to heavy rainfall, posing threats of flash floods and landslides.

At the same time, the provinces of Aurora and Quezon in Luzon are under similar weather patterns caused by the easterlies. These weather systems are drawing warm and moist air into the country, increasing the chances of localized thunderstorms and possible flooding.

In the rest of the country, including Metro Manila, residents can expect partly cloudy to cloudy skies paired with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoon or evening. PAGASA warned that severe thunderstorms in these areas could still lead to localized flooding or landslide events.

Wind conditions remain stable, but vigilance urged

Wind and coastal conditions remain generally calm. Light to moderate winds are expected across Luzon, blowing from the east to southeast, while Visayas and Mindanao will experience similar wind strength from the southwest to southeast. Seas across the country will stay slight to moderate, ranging from 0.6 to 1.5 meters.

Despite stable maritime conditions, PAGASA reminded the public—especially those in low-lying or mountainous areas—to stay alert and monitor weather updates.

As part of its 24-hour forecast, PAGASA recorded a minimum temperature of 25.1°C at 4:30 a.m. and a maximum temperature of 31.9°C at 2:00 p.m. Thursday. Relative humidity peaked at 93% early in the morning, a sign of lingering moisture that could further fuel thunderstorm activity.

Sunrise today occurred at 5:28 a.m., with sunset expected at 6:27 p.m. Tide levels and astronomical information remain within normal parameters for Metro Manila.

For timely updates, the weather bureau urges the public to follow official advisories through its channels and remain cautious of sudden weather changes.